Façade improvements, even simple ones, have the power to not only preserve valuable historic resources but also to spur positive change throughout an entire community. In 2023, Farmville Downtown Partnership (FDP) received a $50,000 Virginia Main Street (VMS) Downtown Investment Grant (DIG) from the Department of Housing & Community Development (DHCD) to establish a façade improvement matching grant program for district business and property owners. Additionally, the funding supported the development of a comprehensive design guide to assist those undertaking façade renovations on downtown commercial buildings. The guide provides an overview of the architectural styles present in the district, outlines best practices for preservation and renovation projects, and includes links to free technical resources from the National Park Service.
The goal of the program was to enhance the visual appeal of downtown buildings and stimulate private investment within the central business district. By funding exterior renovations, FDP aimed to not only revitalize downtown but also reinforce its “College Town Connections” Transformation Strategy.
This initiative recognizes that a vibrant downtown not only reflects positively on Longwood University and Hampden Sydney College but also strengthens the synergy between the town and campus communities. A visually appealing and dynamic downtown environment attracts residents, visitors, and students, creating a shared sense of pride and place. Enhancing the downtown district makes Farmville more attractive to prospective students and faculty, while also offering current students a lively and engaging environment that complements their academic experience.
Over the past year, FDP was able to support the renovation of seven building facades, encompassing nine storefronts, and stimulate more than $102,000 in private investment to enhance the downtown district.
Explore the before-and-after photos below to see the transformative façade improvements that have been made in Downtown Farmville:
117 North Main Street
Replaced awning and painted front facade to show architectural character of the building
136-138 North Main Street | 140 North Main Street
Painted exterior in historic colors to enhance the architectural character of the building and reopened windows on second floor
214 North Main Street
Repointed masonry, repaired damaged wood and second floor windows, and repainted exterior trim
225 North Main Street
Replaced awning
108-110 4th Street
Painted exterior trim, added an awning, and installed new panels above and below storefront windows
308 North Main Street
Replaced second floor windows with replicated wood windows and painted exterior trim with new color palette
Click here to learn more about how establishing a facade improvement grant program can benefit your downtown and the entire community!
Virginia Main Street 